Innovate, Develop and Learn: How the OU Prompted Programs that Meet Women’s Needs

In recent years, Orthodox women have sought a greater voice in Torah scholarship and learning, prompting the OU to fund a number of Women’s Initiative Challenge Grants to meet growing communal needs.

Adina Shmidman, the founding director of the department, told JNS the OU initially planned to make 10 grants, but was “bowled over” by the detailed, erudite applications, of which the organization received 93 in total. In all, the OU secured funds for 16 grants, noting the high interest and excellent submissions.